THE youngest and only female Governor in Dartmoor Prison?s checkered history has resigned. Claudia Sturt, a graduate of Somerville College, Oxford, came to the region in 2003 tasked with easing the prison into its new class C status and determined to shake off the institution?s Victorian reputation. Through her own efforts and those of a dedicated staff, Claudia put into place a series of changes which elevated Dartmoor from its position as the third worst prison in the UK to its current ranking among the top 50%. Since her arrival the prison and its staff have recieved numerous awards for their dedication and innovative rehabilitation schemes. One of the more memorable events during her time at Dartmoor was a concert put on by local folk musician Seth Lakeman, accompanied on guitar by an inmate. Despite initial reservations, the gig was well received by prisoners and for Claudia it proved to be one of many highlights of her time there. Having grown up in the Ashburton area, the 38-year-old polo enthusiast leapt at the chance to return to the moors when offered the post. ?I think the last two years have probably been the happiest and most rewarding time in my professional life,? she said of her time at Dartmoor. ?I will be extremely sad to move. ?For me it has been the human things which have made the experience so special ? when a prisoner tells you he has passed his tenth drug test in a row, when you hear them recording bedtime stories for their children, when you meet relatives who come in and see their son looking healthy and sounding optimistic about his situation. ?It is these things which have had a profound effect on me.? On May 1 Claudia will leave to lead the Prison Service team bidding against the private sector to run three jails on the Isle of Sheppery, Kent. The 39th governor of Dartmoor Prison, she is likely to be remembered as the most successful in recent years, both by prisoners and the prison service alike. She said: ?Of all the things I have done in my life, I am most proud of the things we have achieved at Dartmoor.?